Bleeding and Clotting Disorders

Platelets

11/14/2008

Question:

We have a relative that is being treated for cancer that the doctors say is NOT in her bone marrow yet her platelets are extremely low. They have given her packed platelets and the counts remain low. Sounds to me like she isn`t producing platelets. Are there any artificial substitutes that can be used as platelet substitutes to give her the amount of clotting protection she needs? Also are there any chemotherapy or other drugs that they might have her on that could be suppressing platelet production? She also has had radiation. Thank you.

Answer:

Currently a bone marrow stimulus for platelets is undergoing testing, but it is not available in this clinical situation. I cannot comment on what caused the low platelets although many chemotherapy drugs do this.

Response by:

Please note: only your personal physician or other health professional you consult can best advise you on matters of your health based on your medical history, your family medical history, your medication history, and how information from any of these databases may apply to you. Neither University of Cincinnati (NetWellness) nor any party involved in creating, producing or delivering this web site shall be liable for any damages arising out of access to or use of this web site, or any errors or omissions in the content thereof. (More)